The Director General of the National Sports Commission (NSC), Hon. Bukola Olopade, has thrown his weight behind a growing alliance between the Nigerian American Football Association (NAFA) and Showtime, a prominent promoter of flag football in Nigeria.

Speaking at the official presentation of Team Nigeria’s kits ahead of the IFAF Africa Flag Football Continental Games in Egypt, Olopade praised the energy and innovation surrounding the sport and highlighted its potential to thrive across the country.

“I truly appreciate the enthusiasm and visibility you’re giving flag football in Nigeria,” Olopade said. “A strong partnership between NAFA and Showtime could pave the way for a nationwide league. If this happens, I believe the sport will explode in popularity here.”

He also commended the inclusion of both female and U13 teams in the upcoming tournament, calling it a step in the right direction for long-term grassroots development.

“This trip to Egypt is significant, and I’m especially impressed with the bold inclusion of a youth team—it aligns perfectly with our vision to groom talent from the ground up,” he added.

NAFA President and founder, Babajide Akeredolu, described the tournament as a milestone, with Nigeria set to participate with three teams: a senior squad, a women’s team, and an U13 development team. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with local leagues such as Showtime and the Abuja Flag Football League in building a strong talent pipeline.

Nigeria will compete with other leading African teams including Morocco, South Africa, Tunisia, Ghana, Senegal, Uganda, and host nation Egypt, in the tournament set for June 20–21, 2025.